The Fairytale Road Trip That'll Lead You To Some Of The Most Magical Places In Kansas
By Clarisa|Updated on November 25, 2022(Originally published November 21, 2022)
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
This gorgeous fairytale road trip is great for a two or three-day tour of many magical places in Kansas. Waterfalls, food, gardens, and more! We’ve picked out a place to stay along the way and two great spots to eat at, but you’re welcome to extend the trip, add your own stops, and make it your own. What matters is the fun! Come along and see why there’s no place like Kansas.
Welcome to our next Only In Kansas road trip! For this one, you'll spend about 5-6 hours driving and much more time exploring.
These scenes are some of our most beautiful, and even though many don't think of Kansas as a fairytale, we do. Stick around for a map at the end to look at all the locations and trip route.
1. Santa Fe Lake Falls - Augusta
Santa Fe Lake, 11367 SW Shore Dr, Augusta, KS 67010, USA
Starting off with a beautiful waterfall is a great way to wake you up in the morning for a refreshing start to your day. Why not enjoy some time listening to the rushing water?
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2. Beautiful Day Cafe - Wichita
Nourish ICT, 2516 E Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67214, USA
Speaking of beautiful, this cafe really sets the bar. Attached to the cafe is a garden, and when available, they use the produce grown there to make food. As a bonus, there's a miniature library inside!
EDITOR'S NOTE: Beautiful Day Cafe has unfortunately closed, but open at the same location is Nourish ICT, a farm to table meal prep company. Enjoy local food in the comfort of wherever you might be staying!
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3. Dyck Arboretum - Hesston
Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, 177 W Hickory St, Hesston, KS 67062, USA
This mini castle is fun for all ages, especially if you've never had the pleasure of visiting. It's a gorgeous spot for a picnic, but looking over the wide expanse of hills and farmland is a treat for your eyes as well.
This gorgeous bed & breakfast fits the scenery in Abilene, as well as the road trip. A relaxing night in fairytale beauty is just what we need before another day on the road! Visit the Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast website for all the information you need to plan your stay.
6. Geary State Fishing Lake - Junction City
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area, US-77, Junction City, KS 66441, USA
This beautiful lake which is perfect for a day out on the water, also happens to have a waterfall we can't pass up on our trip. Though it's pretty rocky and might be slick in places, if you're good at climbing, it might be a fun time.
At the Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area, you can dip your feet into the water for a quick refreshing dip as long as the water's not too dried up this year. Imagine taking a covered wagon over this area!
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8. The Wheel Barrel - Topeka
The Wheel Barrel, 925 N Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66608, USA
Stop for a bite to eat with these fanciful grilled cheese sandwiches, which come in all sorts of varieties. Alongside it, relax with a brew from the tap or a flight of them to enjoy during your meal. Check out The Wheel Barrel's Facebook page for all the latest information on hours and current menu!
9. The Japanese Friendship Garden - Lawrence
The Japanese Friendship Garden, 1045 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044, USA
Next on our list is the beautiful Japanese Friendship Garden, made to tie two cultures together across the world. Lawrence matches gardens with Hiratsuka, who has been their "sister city" for years.
Last on our list but never least is Castle Tea Room, a special events venue that is a beautiful spot to visit even from the outside only. Built in 1894, this beauty stands tall and simply stunning.
Have you been to any of these attractions? Which was your favorite? There are a lot of magical places in Kansas, and if you know of any we missed, let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you. Also, consider telling us about them here on this nomination form!
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More to Explore
Places To Visit In Kansas
Katie Feldkamp|November 25, 2022
Where are there some hidden gems in Kansas?
There’s no shortage of hidden gems in Kansas. When wondering what there is to see and discover, consider the following:
Little Pyramids in Scott City
Grassroots Art Center in Lucas
Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City
Paul Boyer Museum of Animated Carvings in Belleville
For additional information about these and other hidden gems in Kansas, check out this article.
What is the best road trip in Kansas?
There’s a lot of beauty to be had, and a lot of roads to be driven in the state of Kansas. Because of that, it’s hard to single out the one and only best road trip in Kansas. But also because of that, here are some of the best trips depending on the time of year and your interests:
